Round 2, With a Twist: Everything You Need to Know About Hosting a Baby Sprinkle

Congratulations are in order: You or someone you know is having another baby! Even though it’s not the first child, new life is a milestone that deserves to be celebrated. Cue the baby sprinkle.

Whether you’re the one throwing the sprinkle and need some help planning or you’ve been invited as a guest and don’t know quite what to expect, we’ve got you covered with this guide to baby sprinkles.

Table of contents

• What is a baby sprinkle?
• Sprinkle vs. shower: What’s the difference?
• Are sprinkles a new concept?
• What’s a third baby shower called?
• When to have a sprinkle and how long it should be
• Sprinkle themes
• Baby sprinkle etiquette
• Where to host a sprinkle
• How to plan a perfect sprinkle

What is a baby sprinkle?

Baby sprinkles are a relatively new concept that you can think of as “baby shower lite.”

These events focus on celebrating a new birth and a new addition to the family. It’s customary for only the parents’ closest friends and relatives to be invited to a sprinkle, rather than acquaintances, coworkers or extended family.

Because they already have at least one child, it’s likely the guest of honor has a lot of the major necessities—crib, stroller, car seat, clothes—covered already. However, small (but still useful) token gifts are welcome. Maybe they had a boy the first time and now are having a girl—or vice versa—and are in need of a fresh wardrobe. Plus, certain items like teethers and pacifiers might have worn out since the first child was born. And, of course, a new parent can never have too many diapers.

What’s the difference between a baby sprinkle vs. shower?

While first-time baby showers are often large gatherings with lots of gifts, parenting advice, and people (including acquaintances), sprinkles tend to be smaller, lower-key and more intimate, with only the parents’ closest family and friends in attendance.

First-time baby showers also are usually more elaborate in terms of decorations, food and games. They tend to be less casual, too.

As the name “sprinkle” suggests, guests will generally only sprinkle the parents with gifts for the baby, rather than showering them. If they already have everything they need, invitations may reinforce that the party is about celebrating rather than presents, and state that guests should not to bring gifts.

When did baby sprinkles become a “thing”?

Baby sprinkles are a relatively new twist on the classic baby shower. While traditional showers became popular in post‑WWII America, often focused on fully stocking the nursery for a first child, sprinkles didn’t enter the conversation until the early 2010s. Parents welcoming their second or third baby realized they already had most of the essentials, so they opted for a smaller, more casual celebration where guests “sprinkle” them with love and a few practical gifts. 

What is a third baby shower called?

While there’s not a distinct term specifically for a shower marking a third baby, sprinkles have become the go-to label for gatherings meant to celebrate additional children with practical gifts and relaxed vibes. In some etiquette circles the term “sip and see” is also used—but that typically refers to an informal gathering after the baby’s arrival where friends and family can meet the new little one.

How do I decide when to have a baby sprinkle?

Like a standard baby shower, a sprinkle can be held at any time from the second trimester onward. It also depends largely on the parents’ schedule, venue availability and other factors that affect timing.

How long should a baby sprinkle last?

A baby sprinkle is meant to feel relaxed and low-key, so it usually doesn’t need to run all day. Most sprinkles last about two to three hours, which gives guests enough time to greet the parents-to-be, enjoy a bite to eat, and celebrate without the event feeling drawn out.

Do baby sprinkles have themes?

Although sprinkles are meant to be less intense than baby showers, many hosts still choose to create some sort of theming around the celebration. Sprinkle themes can include something as laidback and simple as a neutral color scheme (which is particularly appropriate if the parents don’t yet know if the baby is a girl or a boy) or full-fledged—and adorable—ideas like teddy bear picnics and “sprinkled with love.”

Baby sprinkle etiquette

In addition to figuring out what a sprinkle is and deciding on a theme and gifts, there are also etiquette rules to consider if you want to do it properly. 

Are baby sprinkles tacky?

Baby sprinkles sometimes spark debate—some critics see them as unnecessary or a bit gift-focused—but many parents and guests embrace them as a thoughtful, low-key way to celebrate a new little one. When framed as a joyful gathering rather than a present-focused event, a sprinkle can feel both meaningful and appropriate. 

In fact, etiquette experts like Miss Manners even applaud the sprinkle’s ability to reduce the gift-giving pressure of a traditional shower, making it more about connection than extravagance. At Peerspace, we say if a sprinkle feels right for your family and friends, it’s a sweet way to mark the occasion.

Who pays for a baby sprinkle?

Traditionally, the host of the baby sprinkle covers the cost of the celebration. This could be a close friend, sibling, another family member of the parents-to-be, or the parents-to-be themselves. Since sprinkles are meant to be smaller and simpler than full baby showers, the costs are usually modest—think light snacks, a few decorations, and maybe a fun activity or two.

Who should throw a baby sprinkle?

If you decide a sprinkle feels right for you, the Emily Post Institute—an authority on etiquette—notes that it’s typically hosted by someone outside the immediate family, such as a relative or a close friend of the parents-to-be. That said, traditions can vary, and the most important thing is choosing an approach that feels comfortable and meaningful for your unique situation.

Who should you invite to a baby sprinkle?

A baby sprinkle is meant to feel intimate and low‑pressure, so the guest list is usually much smaller than a traditional baby shower. While a shower often includes extended family, co-workers, and friends from multiple parts of your life, a sprinkle focuses on the inner circle—the people closest to the parents‑to‑be who will be most excited to celebrate the new arrival without a big production.

Here’s how your sprinkle guest list might differ from a full shower:

• Stick to close family and friends: Siblings, grandparents, best friends, and those who are part of your daily life should make the list.
  
• Skip distant acquaintances and optional invites: Unlike a shower, there’s no need to include co‑workers, extended cousins, or friends-of-friends unless they’re truly part of your support system.
  
• Consider kid‑friendly invites: Sprinkles often have a casual, playful vibe, so including siblings and a few children can make the day feel cozy and fun.
  
• Invite only who matters most: If your shower was a “big tent,” your sprinkle is a tight circle where every guest feels essential to the celebration.

By narrowing the guest list, the sprinkle keeps the focus on connection and support rather than formalities or obligations—making it a warm, memorable way to honor your growing family.

Do you bring gifts to a baby sprinkle?

In terms of gift giving, the general rule for a baby sprinkle is to bring something small unless the host or invitation specifically says otherwise. Most parents don’t create registries for a sprinkle, but if one exists, use it as your guide. When in doubt, it’s always okay to ask the host.

A few exceptions call for bigger gifts. If the new baby is arriving very close in age to the first, parents may need duplicates of essentials like strollers or cribs. On the flip side, if there’s a large age gap, the family might have passed along or donated their original gear. In either case, a thoughtful larger item can go a long way. Find more baby sprinkle gift inspiration in our full guide on the topic.

What should you wear to a baby sprinkle?

Choosing an outfit for a baby sprinkle is all about striking the balance between casual comfort and a touch of celebration. Since sprinkles are typically more low‑key than full baby showers, you can skip the cocktail attire, but you still want to feel polished and party‑ready.

Here are some simple outfit tips:

• Check the invite for clues: The location and time of day will guide your look. A backyard brunch calls for sundresses, flats, or dressy jeans, while a restaurant sprinkle may lean toward smart‑casual.
  
• Embrace soft, cheerful colors: Pastels, florals, or airy neutrals feel right at home, but don’t be afraid of a bold accessory or fun pattern.
  
• Prioritize comfort: Sprinkles often involve mingling and light activities, so choose breathable fabrics and shoes you can stand in easily.

If in doubt, aim for elevated casual: the kind of look you’d wear to brunch with friends or a relaxed garden party. Feeling comfortable and confident ensures you can fully enjoy the celebration.

Where should you have a baby sprinkle?

A baby sprinkle is meant to be low-key, so your venue should match the vibe. Most sprinkles are intimate gatherings, which makes them flexible—you can host one almost anywhere that feels cozy and comfortable for the parents-to-be. Popular options include:

• At home: A living room, backyard, or patio can set the perfect casual tone. It’s personal, budget-friendly, and easy to decorate with a few balloons or a themed backdrop.
  
• A friend or family member’s home: If your own space is too small or the guest list is a little larger, borrowing a loved one’s space keeps the event intimate without the stress of cleaning your own house.
  
• A local park or garden: Outdoor settings are great for spring or summer sprinkles. They give kids room to play and make photos extra pretty, but always have a weather backup plan.
  
• A private room at a café or restaurant: Perfect for a sprinkle brunch or tea, these spaces simplify cleanup and keep the celebration effortless.
  
• A small event space: Renting a unique space, like a cozy loft, art gallery, or sunlit studio, creates a special backdrop without requiring a huge guest list. Platforms like Peerspace make it easy to find charming, ready-to-host baby sprinkle venues for intimate celebrations.

No matter where you host, the key is choosing a spot that reflects the relaxed, joyful spirit of a sprinkle. Think about what will make the parents-to-be feel celebrated without the pressure of a full-blown baby shower.

How to plan a baby sprinkle

Planning a baby sprinkle should feel fun, not overwhelming. Since sprinkles are meant to be more relaxed than traditional showers, you can keep the focus on connection and celebration rather than a long checklist. Here’s a simple approach to get started:

1. Choose the guest list: Sprinkles are typically small and intimate, inviting close friends and family. Think of it as a cozy get-together rather than a full-scale event.
   
2. Pick the perfect location: A sprinkle can happen anywhere that feels personal and comfortable, from your living room or backyard to a local café, park, or charming baby sprinkle rental space through platforms like Peerspace.
   
3. Select a simple theme or vibe: While sprinkles are low-key, having a loose theme—like a cozy brunch, backyard picnic, or pastel “sprinkle” décor—makes it feel special without a ton of effort.
   
4. Plan light refreshments: Finger foods, pastries, or a dessert table are perfect for a sprinkle, and they leave more time for mingling. Keep things simple with these crowd-pleasing sprinkle food ideas.
   
5. Organize small touches: Low-pressure games, a memory book for well wishes, thoughtful favors or a few sweet decorations create a warm, celebratory atmosphere.
   
6. Keep gifts optional: Most sprinkles are about love, not loot. If you have a registry, share it discreetly, but let guests know that small or personalized gifts are always appreciated.

The key to a perfect sprinkle is focusing on the joy of welcoming a new baby, not on elaborate planning. By keeping the event intimate and authentic, you’ll create a celebration the parents-to-be will actually enjoy.

Celebrate your growing family your way

Like those closest to the expectant parents, Peerspace wants everything to be perfect for the sprinkle. With the ability to book by the hour, direct connections to property owners and user-friendly search tools, it’s the go-to booking platform for baby sprinkle venues. Whether you’re looking for a sleek warehouse in a city or a barn in the countryside, Peerspace makes finding your ideal party place easier than changing a diaper. Regardless of the type of event you choose to plan for the soon-to-arrive little one, the perfect venue will help to make the celebration even more special. Let Peerspace guide you to your perfect baby sprinkle party space.